I would consider myself new to Islam, converting on 2/25/11. I am very happy with the choice I made and am trying my hardest to learn as much as I can. Reason for opening this topic is to get any responces possible and if any other new muslims feel overwhelmed. It is pretty personal things to talk about my past, but I never use to pray. Now I try to pray more (not always all 5) But I try. I do not think I am trying my hardest and I feel guilt. I just wanted some advice on what are things I should try... Other life problems have come in the way and I know now I need prayer more than anything. Thanks in advance for any advice. :)

Welcome to Islam and Inshalla you be happy finding this a new way in life.

I think you need to spend time understanding the meanings behind each pillar of islam, why it's there, and how does it relate to our daily life.. for the problem that comes over, we feel in more need for spiritual help that's why we do things better, but life get easy we seem to forget.. we cannot change our nature, but we shall be always connected with the grounded principles even when life is going easy.. that is the hard part.

@destinie:
Asalaam alaykum. I too have recently accepted Islam and can understand that challenges you must be faced with especially while living in the US. To me the hardest part about offering Salat was memorizing the Suras and the few other duas. I found it extremely helpful to learn from www.mounthira.com. I first learnt the Ayat Al-Kursi, and used to recite it in times of difficulty. It really helped me.

asalaamu alaikum Sr Destinie. Welcome to Islam and to the forum. Br. Tariqtaha above gave you good advice...study the five pillars and why they are so important.

I would add that wanting to learn all you can about Islam is normal, but don't let yourself become overwhelmed (as you mentioned you are). When you are overwhelmed, Shaytan will use those feelings as a way to lead you away from the straight path. Just take your time and study at your own pace, and praise Allah (swt), for He is the Giver of Knowledge.

Also Sr. aishazahra gave good advice and a link to a great website for learning...you should check that out.

Aassalamualaikum sister. Welcome to our ummah. At first, praying 5 times will be a bit difficult, but slowly u will get used to it. Just keep trying die hard to pray 5 times. It is important not to miss any prayer. And Allah is always there to help u.

The world is a dangerous place to live in, not because of the bad people, but because of the good people who does not do anything about it.

Through a wonderful pen pal that I have since lost contact with I was introduced to Islam I was so impressed by him and his culture that I started reading the Quran and any other Islamic website I can find I now spend hours a day reading everything I can find. I want so desperately to convert to Islam but I am hesitant because I am having such dificulty learning the prayers and I am afraid to make that commitment with out being able to say the five daily prayers. I have not been able to find any Islamic groups in my community to seek help I am feeling lost and hopeless does any one have any good advise.

Salam
Destinie don't despair.... I sometimes end up doing all prayers in the evening as I can't pray in the office (well, it is a bit awkward ) Slowly you will start looking forward to the prayers, giving you peace and time to reflect. Don't worry, Allah understands your struggle.

And, LisaW - Welcome to IC.. you don't have to know all the prayers BEFORE you convert. I had a crib sheet with transliteration/phonetics clutched in my hand or placed on the floor in front of me while praying. Even to this day, when I try to memorize new prayer I do write it down, again and again and read while doing prayers...
Is there no mosque near you?
If not, here are loads of people who will ty to help!
Don't be afraid to ask

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